Sepsis

A baby or young child has any of these symptoms of sepsis:

• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis
• difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their stomach sucking under their ribcage), breathlessness or breathing very fast
• a weak, high-pitched cry that's not like their normal cry
• not responding like they normally do, or not interested in feeding or normal activities
• being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake

They may not have all these symptoms.

An adult or older child has any of these symptoms of sepsis:

• acting confused, slurred speech or not making sense
• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis
• difficulty breathing, breathlessness or breathing very fast

They may not have all these symptoms.

You, your child or someone you look after:

• feels very unwell or like there's something seriously wrong
• has not had a pee all day (for adults and older children) or in the last 12 hours (for babies and young children)
• keeps vomiting and cannot keep any food or milk down (for babies and young children)
• has swelling or pain around a cut or wound
• has a very high or low temperature, feels hot or cold to the touch, or is shivering

Do not worry if you're not sure if it's sepsis – it's still best to call 111.

They can tell you what to do, arrange a phone call from a nurse or doctor, or call you an ambulance.